Join us for an afternoon of hands on discovery and interaction as we explore STE(a)M in the new NBCS learning environment.
Northern Beaches Christian School has demonstrated that change is both necessary and possible – a change in paradigm and in learning space design - to empower students to take charge of their own learning. Our Term 2 event will be hosted by NBCS, and include presentations, tours and a hands-on Design/Engage workshop.
The school reached a point a few years ago where the key focus needed to be a re-examination of the built infrastructure and assess ways to create learning spaces consistent with emerging pedagogy, providing flexibility and agility. Hence the new community project, Manhattan and the City.
The key elements were relocating the school’s reception to provide a welcoming presence to the community and visitors from the street, and creating a heart of the school, the “town square”. Architects WMK were engaged to respond to the brief that included: glass, height, space, light, community, transparency, pioneering spatial design and innovative interiors. In 2013 Stage 1 began work on the ‘Gateway’ building, which reinvents reception and administration areas. Then Manhattan and the City followed, an 18 month building project in the centre of the school.
Within the heart of the school has an outdoor/indoor open community area, glass-enclosed double science learning space, co-working office for the principal and senior leadership team, meeting rooms, cafe/canteen, student reception and services, and Manhattan co-working area for senior students and staff. Buildings are connected by bridges to the treehouse.
The Event: Why STEAM, why now?
A diverse and hands-on program is planned for the Term 2 event for Learning Environments Australasia, utilising the expertise of the team at NBCS within the context of Manhattan and the City.
Presentation - Stephen Harris, principal at NBCS will present a session, “Why STEAM, why now? Under Stephen’s leadership the school has embraced an approach that intentionally fosters a culture of self-directed, student-led learning – growing students to be high-capacity leaders and creative thinkers.
Workshop - Anne Knock and Steve Collis will take participants through Design/Engage, a workshop approach brings a user experience approach to the design thinking. They lead the SCIL team, the professional development and consulting unit within NBCS.
School tour - There will be an opportunity for participants to take a tour of the learning and community spaces at NBCS. This will include Manhattan and the City, RnB Music Studio, The Design Centre, Parkside Science and The Zone (Years 5 and 6 shared space).
Tuesday 3 May, 2.00 to 5.00pm.
Book early to ensure your seat as places are strictly limited to a maximum of 60 registrants.
